Congratulations are in order for GASP Executive Director Rachel Filippini, who was named one of “25 Essential Pittsburghers” for her work on “the forefront of the battle for clean air.”
NEXTpittsburgh, which compiled the list of honorees, shared this comment from one of Filippini’s nominators:
“Rachel has been dedicatedly fighting to protect our air and water for years and without fanfare — and deserves some.”
GASP couldn’t agree more.
“It’s been a pleasure working with Rachel over the years. She’s deeply concerned about air quality and has become one of our region’s most effective advocates,” GASP board President Jonathan Nadle said. “She directs GASP with professionalism and care, creating a welcoming environment for staff and a great working relationship with the board.”
He continued: “Her effective leadership allows GASP to wield an outsize influence, ensuring supporters get the biggest bang for their buck.”
Filippini started at GASP in 2001, ascending to executive director in 2004. During her tenure here, she has been a changemaker.
She spearheaded new Allegheny County air quality legislation, beefed up GASP’s work in local schools and communities, and helped take the lead on getting Clean Construction legislation passed in the City of Pittsburgh and beyond—all while keeping air pollution issues in the public spotlight.
Thanks to her leadership, GASP has developed a comprehensive diesel program, as well as the Athletes United for Healthy Air campaign.
It’s not just GASP and NEXTpittsburgh that has lauded her work and leadership: In 2009, Filippini was named one of Pittsburgh’s “40 Under 40.” Then in 2011, she was honored with one of the Women and Girls Foundation’s “Women Greening the Pittsburgh Region.”
She has also served on Allegheny County’s Air Pollution Control Advisory Committee since 2017 and currently serves on the board of Pittsburgh United.
Filippini said the recognition came as a very pleasant surprise.
“I’m honored to be listed alongside so many dynamic area leaders—people who have done, and continue to do, so much to improve the city we all call home,” she said.